By Shannon Willits
When kids go back to school it shakes up the whole household routine. The new schedule is not just felt in family homes but throughout cities and towns as traffic patterns differ, stores change their products and fall activities begin to take into effect. This change is a chance for parents to plan and prioritize their well-being.
While every family is different, mothers still dominate childcare and household responsibilities. 58% of mothers, from Motherly’s State of Motherhood 2023 Survey, report being mostly responsible for household duties and caring for children. 77% report being the parent responsible for scheduling and appointments for the household. Parents, especially mothers, can get caught up in taking care of everyone else while putting their own well-being to the side.
One the most over-regurgitated words of advice for mothers is, “you have to take better care of yourself.” This truth leaves a vague direction which often undermines the intended advice. Parents need to invest in their health at every opportunity these days.
Planning, simplicity and convenience are the keys to successfully starting and continuing a fitness program.
Finding Fitness that Aligns
To be successful in setting a new goal takes thought and planning. Preparing is key for desired outcomes and to set both short-term and long-term goals. When choosing a fitness program think about external and internal factors like:
External factors:
. Fitness location and schedule
. Fitness program that is efficient, well-rounded and offers a variety of options
. Fitness program that provides resources and supportive community
Internal factors:
. Finding short-term and long-term motivation
. Preparing with proper clothing and equipment
. Look for the small changes like in your daily living activities like improved posture
Strategic Planning for Fitness Success!
Choose a fitness modality that you enjoy doing
Finding something fun to do is a key factor in staying committed to a fitness journey. Enjoyment can increase motivation, improve mental health and enhance physical performance. It can also make exercise more sustainable over time and increase social connection.
Create Accountability
In regard to fitness, accountability is poised to be a powerful incentive. Creating a sense of accountability can be achieved in several ways, such as;
. Joining a fitness group: Joining a fitness group can provide a like-minded community, support and accountability. Choose a fitness program that offers classes on the days and times that are convenient for you and your lifestyle. Planning classes for several days every week creates an appointment with the instructor and others in the class for built-in accountability and a sense of community.
. Hiring a personal trainer: A personal trainer can provide personalized support, motivation and accountability. They can also help to create a workout plan that is tailored to your individual needs and goals.
. Tracking progress: Tracking progress can provide a sense of accomplishment and motivate you to continue with your fitness journey.
Location, location, location!
With so many boutique fitness options out there, it should be fairly easy to choose one that is conveniently located. Choosing a studio or gym that is convenient to get to is essential for maintaining a consistent workout routine. A location that’s not a burden to reach, whether it’s close to your home, workplace, grocery store or child’s school will make it easier to incorporate exercise into your daily schedule. The less effort it takes to get there, the more likely you’ll stick to your fitness routine.
Club Pilates strives to include all the discussed components. Delivering a well-rounded workout for each participant can be expected at Club Pilates. It’s efficient and time-saving because of the variety of classes offered and Club Pilates is open seven days a week. With interesting equipment, Pilates offers strength and core training, flexibility and mobility exercises and cardiovascular training making it a one stop shop to meet all fitness goals. Plus the locations are conveniently located within Lee County.
A new schedule is an opportunity to embrace earning a better quality of life. Joseph Pilates said “Physical fitness is the first requisite of happiness.” These words are true at Club Pilates. Putting oneself first for one hour a day is not a selfish act. Instead, it is an act of self-care, self-improvement and an example to the next generation that living a healthy, active lifestyle is key to a better quality of life.
References:
1. Motherly’s 2023 State of Motherhood Survey Report
2. Pew Research Center. “Key Facts About Moms in the US,” 2023. By Katherine Shaeffer and Carolina Aragao
3. Cambridge University Press. “The Handbook of Behavior Change,” 2020. Edited by Martin S. Hagger, Linda D. Cameron, Kyra Hamilton, Nelli Hankonen, Taru Lintunen
Shannon Willits, Master Pilates Educator
Shannon is a Master Pilates Educator with 4 growing local Club Pilates studios. As a career Pilates instructor and functional movement specialist, Shannon has mastered the science and art of her craft. She shares her knowledge by certifying aspiring Pilates instructors. Shannon’s unique approach for developing an apprenticeship has grown into a recent launch for Southwest Florida Pilates Academy. Learn more at (786) 708-7601.
In her spare time Shannon has taken a love for playing Pickleball. Combining her Pilates wisdom with Pickleball training Shannon teaches Pilates for Pickleball. Currently you can find her Pilates for Pickleballs tips with Into Pickleball Online Magazine and pilates-pickleball.com.
Club Pilates
www.clubpilates.com